Annual April Alley Clean-Up April 9-12 in Ascension Trace. Bulk Trash Collection on Monday, April 13.
Posted April 9, 2009

"WHAT IS APRIL ALLEY CLEAN-UP?" Now in its third year, NHHA's "April Alley Clean-Up" is the spring event during which Northwood Hills residents spiff up their back alleys. Rain is expected and it's Easter/Passover weekend, so alley clean-up projects are starting Thursday, April 9. As of Thursday morning, it's OK to begin stacking bulk trash on the front curb for collection next week.

"WHY DO WE HAVE APRIL ALLEY CLEAN-UP?" Front yards typically get all the attention, but each homeowner is responsible for maintaining the area from the back property line to the center of the alley. Bushes must be trimmed back so the right-of-way is clear and any trees that overhang the alley must be trimmed up 15 feet.

"HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE?" Clean-up and security ideas are listed below. The most common alley complaint is bushes and limbs that have grown out into the right of way and scratch cars... so check for those. If you have bags of leaves or debris that have been sitting out back, haul them around to the front curb for pick-up on Monday.

If you have an Alley Clean-Up project, we'll come take a picture for the NHHA newsletter... email it to our president OR send your Alley Clean-Up Before and After pictures to our our webmaster.

Clean-Up Ideas:
• Grab a rake, broom and bag... spiff up your back fenceline and haul bags to front curb for collection.
• Trim bushes, limbs and vines that can scratch cars OR provide hiding places for criminals.
• Do you know a neighbor or senior who could use some help? Be a good neighbor and ask them.
• Plant some flowers along your fence or alley... you'll enjoy them every time you come and go.
Security Ideas:
• Install alley security lights. Check alley or driveway security lights. Motion sensors working? Batteries fresh/charging properly? Bulbs intact and secure?
• Add your address to your back fence or gate to assist police and our security patrol.
• Do you know the family behind you? Your alley neighbor is your ally in helping reduce alley crime.
• Consider keeping your garbage and recycle bins inside your yard/garage or up near the house. They have been used to gain access over back fences.